The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about the potential risk of irreversible hearing loss and tinnitus (persistent ringing/buzzing in the ears) among video gamers. Studies suggest that sound levels in video games often approach or exceed permissible safe limits, posing a threat to the hearing health of gamers. The WHO emphasizes the need for greater public health efforts to raise awareness of these risks.
Researchers referenced a study published in the BMJ Public Health, highlighting that the sound levels reported in studies involving more than 50,000 people often approach or exceed permissible safe limits. The popularity of video games, including e-sports, and the estimated global gamer population exceeding three billion in 2022 contribute to the urgency of addressing these potential health risks.
While headphones, earbuds, and music venues have been recognized as sources of potentially unsafe sound levels, the impact of video games on hearing health has received relatively little attention. Gamers often play at high-intensity sound levels for extended periods, making them susceptible to hearing-related issues.
The study reviewed 14 peer-reviewed studies from nine countries, involving a total of 53,833 people. Reported sound levels ranged from 43.2 decibels (dB) for mobile devices to 80-89 dB in gaming centers. Length of noise exposure varied, with daily to monthly access for at least an hour at a time, averaging three hours per week.
The WHO emphasized the importance of understanding permissible exposure levels and duration. For instance, permissible exposure time halves with every 3 dB increase in noise level. The study suggests a need for awareness campaigns and measures to protect the hearing health of video gamers globally.
